The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a critical decision regarding the future of Rui Hachimura, a player considered “underrated” but brimming with potential within their roster. As Hachimura enters the final year of his current contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026, the pressure to extend his deal is mounting.
In the September 22 episode of “The Zach Lowe Show,” former ESPN journalist Zach Lowe discussed the Lakers’ situation with Sam Amick of The Athletic. Lowe emphasized that Hachimura is a valuable player who needs to be secured with a new contract. “They can offer Rui Hachimura enough money to pique his interest,” Lowe stated. “I think his extension would start somewhere around $26 million and go up from there based on his current salary. I think Rui Hachimura is good, I think he’s actually underrated.” While Hachimura may not be an elite defender, he holds his own on that end of the floor. More importantly, he’s an effective three-point shooter, boasting a 42.2% success rate in the 2023-24 season and 41.3% last season. This skill set has drawn comparisons to Luka Doncic’s teammate P.J. Washington, making him a perfect fit for the Lakers’ offensive system. In his September 16 article for The Athletic, Sam Amick also highlighted that Hachimura could be an ideal partner for Luka Doncic if the Lakers build their roster around this combination. However, the team’s ambition to maintain financial flexibility for the 2027 offseason, when superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic could hit free agency, has made the Lakers hesitant to extend Hachimura’s contract. Although Zach Lowe believes there will be discussions between the Lakers and Hachimura, multiple sources suggest that reaching a new agreement is unlikely. Jovan Buha, on the August 15 episode of his “Buha’s Block” podcast, shared: “With the current intel I have, I do not expect Rui to be extended by the Lakers in the next six weeks. It’s certainly possible that something happens, but most of what’s out there is them wanting to keep the books clean and wanting to see whether he starts or whether he’s their sixth man and how the pieces fit this year.” Hachimura is currently one of the Lakers’ players eligible for a contract extension this offseason. If no deal is reached before the 2025-26 season ends, he will become a free agent, opening the door for other teams to pursue him. Amid ongoing contract discussions, the Lakers have begun preparations for the new season. The team’s training camp is set to start on September 29, but several players, including Hachimura, have already been working out at the team’s facilities over the past week. This signals the Lakers’ determination to build a competitive roster, with LeBron James and Austin Reaves continuing to serve as key pillars. In addition to Hachimura’s situation, the Lakers have been linked to Andrew Wiggins as a potential target to bolster scoring and perimeter defense. However, an unnamed executive told Lakers Daily that it would be shocking if the Miami Heat traded Wiggins to the Lakers. The reason? Heat president Pat Riley still holds a grudge against LeBron James for leaving Miami in 2014. The idea of Riley helping James build a stronger team seems highly unlikely. Rui Hachimura stands at a pivotal moment in his career with the Lakers. With his proven talent and growth potential, he deserves a contract that reflects his value. However, with the Lakers’ long-term strategy focused on landing superstars in the future, Hachimura’s future in Los Angeles remains uncertain. Can he prove his worth in the upcoming season and convince the front office to commit? Only time will tell.
Rui Hachimura – The Lakers’ Hidden Gem
Extension Likelihood: Will It Happen?
Lakers Gear Up for the New Season
Trade Rumors: Andrew Wiggins and Miami Heat Drama
Conclusion